LAGOS/Nigeria: In a decisive move aimed at enhancing road safety standards, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, issued a stern warning to truck drivers within the agency’s fleet. Emphasizing the paramount importance of adherence to safe driving practices, Gbadegesin cautioned drivers against flouting regulations, citing potential severe repercussions including dismissal.
The directive was communicated through a statement released by Mrs. Folashade Kadiri, Director of Public Affairs at LAWMA, in Lagos on Tuesday.
Gbadegesin highlighted specific infractions such as non-compliance with seat belt usage, drunk driving, over-speeding, and reckless behavior on highways as unacceptable. Additionally, he outlined other prohibited actions including over-loading, loss of safety equipment, possession of invalid driver’s licenses, and instances of waste handlers endangering themselves by clinging onto moving trucks.
The CEO underscored the implementation of stringent penalties, ranging from outright dismissal to prosecution, suspension, salary forfeiture, and non-payment of medical bills in case of accidents, depending on the severity of the offense.
“Reckless road behavior and breach of safe driving rules will henceforth be met with very stiff penalties, including the possibility of dismissal,” affirmed Gbadegesin. He emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the safety of drivers, residents, and all road users during daily operations.
In a proactive measure to engage the community in upholding road safety standards, each LAWMA waste evacuation truck will prominently display contact numbers. This initiative enables residents to promptly report instances of reckless driving or hazardous behavior witnessed on the roads.
Gbadegesin stressed the significance of community involvement in fostering safer road practices, expressing confidence that collective efforts would contribute to maintaining road safety standards. He assured the public of thorough investigations into all reported incidents, with appropriate sanctions imposed on erring drivers.
Reaffirming LAWMA’s dedication to professionalism in waste management operations, the CEO reiterated the Authority’s commitment to ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for Lagosians. He encouraged residents to utilize LAWMA’s toll-free numbers or the displayed contact information on waste evacuation trucks to report concerns related to waste management or road safety violations promptly.
